SHIFT ROD ADJUSTMENT
Check the shift rod height from the shift rod hole to the surface of the gearcase using Universal Shift Rod Height Gauge, P/N 389997.
With the gearcase in NEUTRAL, rotate the shift rod up or down as necessary for correct adjustment. Once correct height is achieved, rotate rod one half turn or less to direct offset to the rear.
Shift Rod Height:
- 21.38 in. (543 mm) ± One-Half Turn
GEARCASE DISASSEMBLY
Pre-Disassembly Inspection
Wear safety glasses to avoid personal injury, and set compressed air pressure to less than 25 psi (172 kPa).
IMPORTANT: Clean and inspect all parts during disassembly. Replace any damaged parts, seals, O-rings, and gaskets.
Remove the propeller/impeller and mounting hardware.
Drain and inspect oil as described in Gearcase Lubricant on p. 61.
Remove gearcase. Refer to GEARCASE REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION on p. 238.
Remove water pump. Refer to WATER PUMP SERVICE on p. 242.
Before disassembling the gearcase, examine the following:
Gearcase Housing — Check for visible damage to skeg, strut, anti-ventilation plate, bullet, and mating surface. Check seal areas for visible signs of lubricant leakage.
Propeller Shaft — Check for bent or damaged shaft. Check for twisted splines and damaged threads.
Shift Rod — Check for misadjusted, bent, or binding rod. A misadjusted shift rod height can cause shift difficulty, loss of boat and outboard control, and gearcase damage.
